Ever found yourself staring at a piece of clothing that has animal print, wondering if they’re leopard or cheetah print? Well you’re not alone! With leopard and cheetah print popping up on everything from jeans and shirts to school supplies (like my own pink leopard print binder) it’s easy to get them confused. Let’s dive into the world of these prints, and learn how to tell the difference, while also learning why animal print has regained its popularity.
The return of leopard and cheetah print was most prominent on social media, especially TikTok. A popular Russian song “ГЛАМУР” (GLAMOUR) by artists unique, nkeeei, ARTEM SHILOVETS, and Wipo was trending, where people would showcase cheetah and leopard print items.
It is very hard to tell the difference between leopard print and cheetah print, because they look very similar. People online call leopard print cheetah print, and cheetah print leopard print, and in response, people break out into uproars. So, what exactly differentiates the two?
Cheetah spots are solid black, and are evenly spaced, and the background color is usually tan. The spots are small, and more uniform, which give it a more sleek look. Leopard spots on the other hand, have a more irregular shape, and the shape varies from spot to spot. The spots have a light center, and a black border surrounding it. The background color is generally golden. Leopard print and cheetah print get confused so much that the designs on objects often differ from the pattern of the actual animal. Many “cheetah print” items are actually leopard print. Cheetah and leopard print are definitely not new in fashion. In 1947, Christian Dior was the first designer to put leopard print on a catwalk. He stated, “if you’re fair and sweet, don’t wear it!” Animal print was showcased as a bold fashion statement, one that showed someone’s fierceness and personality. Cheetah and leopard print especially have transcended through time, and have had so many different eras. An era that I am more familiar with is during the 90s and the 2000s, because my mom kept a lot of her old clothes and accessories and many of them were cheetah print items. (Well now looking at the pattern, it is definitely leopard print!) A significant item that my grandma and my mom had, after immigrating from Jamaica to New York City, was a cheetah print blanket. Now I have the blanket, and it is interesting to see how cheetah print is still prominent today.
Cheetah (left), leopard (right)
Furthermore, cheetah and leopard print are associated with the characteristics of these animals. Cheetahs and leopards are known for their speed and agility, and their striking patterns make them stand out compared to other animals. When someone wears these patterns, they can feel empowered or unique. The prominence of cheetah and leopard print is especially seen in early 2000s entertainment. In “The Cheetah Girls” franchise, a group of “cheetalicious” teenage girls go on a journey of stardom while also navigating highschool and friendship. Or, in the reality TV series “Jersey Shore” a cast member by the name of Snooki, is known for her unique cheetah print outfits.
Particularly in the BHSECQ community, students are always wearing cheetah and leopard print. From backpacks to skirts, there won’t be one day where you don’t see this fierce animal print at Bard. This trend is not only limited to clothing; but it also includes different accessories like notebooks, phone cases, and even stockings! The popularity of these prints at Bard foster a sense of community and shared interest among students. It’s not uncommon to walk down the halls and see someone with a cheetah print skirt on, or sit in a Seminar class and look down to see someone with cheetah print nails.
Cheetah and leopard print will be an everlasting trend in the fashion world. It’s a timeless look because it is the pattern of animals who are already known for their unique patterns. In the next 50 years, a new generation will be able to reclaim and revolutionize these patterns that we all know and love so well. As future generations will repurpose these iconic patterns: how does jaguar print compare to these cherished classics?